Patient Education and Health Maintenance

Encourage frequent follow-up visits for monitoring of CBC and condition.

Teach patient about risk of infection.

Teach patient how to take medications as ordered, and instruct about possible adverse effects and management.

Explain to patient that radiation therapy may cause sterility; men should be given opportunity for sperm banking before treatment; women may develop ovarian failure and require hormone replacement therapy.

Reassure patient that fatigue will decrease after treatment is completed; encourage frequent naps and rest periods.

Provide patient and family with information about resources in the community and other support groups.

Evaluation: Expected Outcomes

Remains afebrile with no signs or symptoms of infection

Skin intact without erythema or swelling

Oral mucosa intact, patient eating

Patient indicates understanding of procedures and situation as condition permits

Maintain a normal/effective respiratory pattern, free of dyspnea, cyanosis, or other signs of respiratory distress